Former City of London Policy Chairman awarded knighthood

Former Policy Chairman of the City of London Corporation, Mark Boleat, has been awarded a knighthood for his contribution to the financial services industry in the UK and to local government in London.

Mark was the Chairman of the Policy and Resources Committee at the City Corporation from 2012-2017. He finished his full five year term on 4 May 2017 and is currently Deputy Policy Chairman at the City Corporation.

The Committee is responsible for the City Corporation’s governance arrangements, recommending its strategic priorities, agreeing policy, allocating overall resources and overseeing the City’s security and emergency planning arrangements. The Policy Chairman’s role also covers responsibilities as a local authority, overseeing the City’s open spaces, educational commitments and cultural institutions.

Mark was also a leading City voice, working closely with the financial and professional services institutions, in both the run up to the EU Referendum, and also playing an important role in how the City reacted to the result.

Mark Boleat said:

“I am honoured to receive this knighthood and it has been a privilege to serve my full term of five years as Policy Chairman.

“In that time I have seen the Square Mile and wider financial and professional services sector go from strength to strength. I hope that my work as Chairman has made sure the City’s voice has been heard loudly and clearly by Government on both domestic issues and of course, Brexit. I also hope that my work has meant the City contributed in some way in supporting education, employment, culture and the many other features that make London the greatest city in the world.”

Current Policy Chairman Catherine McGuinness said:

“Mark Boleat’s knighthood for his services to the City is truly deserved.

“The experience and expertise that he brought from the world of business before becoming Policy Chairman meant he was able to act as a powerful and knowledgeable advocate for the Square Mile. His tireless efforts in championing the City, particularly in directing the steps the City of London took after Brexit, as well promoting important local government issues like skills, education and housing should be noted for the records.”

The City of London Corporation provides local government and policing services for the financial and commercial heart of Britain, the 'Square Mile'. In addition, the City Corporation has three roles:

We support London’s communities by working in partnership with neighbouring boroughs on economic regeneration, education and skills. In addition, the City of London Corporation’s charitable funder, City Bridge Trust, makes grants of around £20 million annually to tackle disadvantage across London.

We also help look after key London heritage and green spaces including Tower Bridge, the Museum of London, Barbican Arts Centre, City gardens, Hampstead Heath, Epping Forest, Burnham Beeches, and important commons in London.

We also support and promote the ‘City’ as a world-leading financial and business hub, with outward and inward business delegations, high-profile civic events and research-driven policies, all reflecting a long-term approach.